The Experiences and Career Trajectories of Hungarian Students in Japan : From Survey Data to Narrative Understanding

This study examines the academic and intercultural experiences of Hungarian students in Japanese higher education, based on two online surveys conducted in 2023 (N = 65) and 2025 (N = 32). Most participants studied in Japan after 2016, reflecting recent growth in exchange and scholarship programs. The findings reveal a shift from cultural idealism to reflective pragmatism as students adapted to Japan’s demanding academic environment while managing social distance and limited feedback. The University of Osaka, a well-established host institution, highlights both the strengths and limitations of Japan’s internationalization efforts. The study concludes that intercultural learning occurs not through assimilation but through reflection, underscoring how small European cohorts contribute to Japan’s academic diversity and global engagement.